On the occasion of Shree Krishna Janmashtami, the Radha Krishna Cultural Group, Pokhara-32, organized the 9th Shree Krishna Janmashtami Festival and Open Bhajan Chudka Competition. Devisthan Bhajan Group from Hemja secured the first position in the competition.
In the event, Muktishwar Lok Khaijedi Bhajan Group from Tokha, Kathmandu, won the second prize, Omkar Bhajan Group from Fulbari, Pokhara, took third place, and Panchase Bhajan Group received the consolation prize.
The competition also awarded excellence in various categories: Shishu Bhajan Group for Best Instrumental Performance, Matrukeshwar Bhajan Group, Hemja, for Best Costume, and Shukla Hiletar Shivay Bhajan Group for Best Vocal Performance.
The winners of the first, second, third, and consolation prizes received cash awards of NPR 50,000, NPR 30,000, NPR 20,000, and NPR 10,000, respectively, along with certificates. Additionally, the winners in the special categories received NPR 5,000 for Best Instrumental Performance, NPR 5,000 for Best Costume, and NPR 3,000 for Best Vocal Performance, all accompanied by certificates. A total of 13 groups participated in the competition, while five performances from various ethnic groups were showcased outside the competition.
During the event’s inauguration, the former Chief Minister and former Home Minister of Gandaki Province, Khagraj Adhikari, emphasized the need to preserve our indigenous cultures.
Addressing the ongoing waste disposal near the Radha Krishna Temple complex, Adhikari stressed that waste management should not be done near such sacred land. He also called for the development of the Radha Krishna Temple and its surroundings as not only a place of worship and learning but also a center for research.
Suryabahadur Khadka, Chancellor of Gandaki Pragya Pratishthan, highlighted the importance of preserving and developing this area, historically known as the meditation ground of Sage Garg.
Kisan Pariyar, Chairperson of Nepal Red Cross Society, Pokhara Metropolitan Ward No. 32, and Gagankalika Savings and Credit Cooperative, expressed concerns over pollution caused by waste near the Radha Krishna Temple, Ashram, and Gurukul. He urged the government to address the issue immediately and recommended that all affected residents be provided with free health insurance.
Sanjay Raj Dhakal, President of the Radha Krishna Cultural Group, stated that the group prioritizes organizing such programs to preserve ancient traditions and cultures.
During the program, Chhabilal Dahal, Parbati Lamichhane, and Prakash Chandra Wagle were honored for their significant contributions to the group.
